Manchester City U18s Head Coach, Chuks Akuneto, has warned that African football risks suffering a major credibility crisis both within and beyond the continent following CAF’s controversial decision to strip Senegal of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title, Completesports.com reports.
CAF Decision Sparks Widespread Debate
CAF’s decision followed what it described as Senegal’s “indiscipline conduct” during the final against Morocco, after the West African side temporarily walked off the pitch, citing alleged referee bias and poor handling of the high-stakes encounter.
The Teranga Lions later returned to the pitch, secured a 1–0 victory, and were crowned champions at the end of the match.
Also Read: AFCON 2025: Senegal Has Right To Appeal CAF Verdict –Motsepe
However, the CAF Appeals Board subsequently overturned the result of the 18 January final, awarding Morocco a 3–0 victory while accusing Senegal of breaching multiple tournament regulations.
CAF Decision ‘Unprecedented’ – Akuneto
Akuneto, a former Nigeria international, expressed strong reservations about the ruling, describing it as damaging to the image of African football.
“I am shocked, surprised and dumbfounded by this strange decision by CAF,” Akuneto told Completesports.com on Thursday.
“This is because the final game was completed, a winner emerged, and medals and trophies were handed out accordingly.
“African football will lose credibility within and outside the continent because the decision is laughable and unprecedented in the history of the game.”
Call For Swnegal Solidarity Across Africa
The former Enugu Rangers player urged other African nations to rally behind Senegal in what he described as a critical moment for the sport on the continent.
“Senegal will receive the support of the footballing world because they won fair and square on the pitch on the final match day,” he added.
By Sab Osuji
